Computer games may help kids with ADHD

VIDEO games could be used to treat children who have attention
deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), researchers believe.

Scientists at the University of Sydney are asking parents of
children who have ADHD - and those who don't - to help with a study
of how specially engineered games may help to relax youngsters,
helping sufferers manage their condition.

The research will focus on biofeedback video games initially
developed by NASA to help keep pilots focused during long,
monotonous flights.

The games train children to control their heart rates and
therefore their concentration. Children are shown that the more
they focus and keep calm, the better the video game works and the
higher their score.

A spokesman for the Sydney researchers said they want to recruit
children between five and 15 years old, with and without the
condition, who can attend sessions three times a week for two
months, or once a week for three months.

There have been growing concerns about the increasing use of
drugs such as Ritalin to treat children with ADHD.

A study published by American researchers last week found that
non-medical interventions can be highly effective in preventing the
behavioural and academic problems associated with ADHD among
preschool children.

Professor George DuPaul of Lehigh University in Pennsylvania,
who headed the study, said: "Medication may address the symptoms of
ADHD but it does not necessarily improve children's academic and
social skills.

"Because this is a lifelong disorder, without any cure, it is
important that we start understanding what tools and strategies are
effective for children at such an early age."

ADHD is a disorder that can cause children to have problems with
concentrating, reading and behaviour, leading to aggression, poor
social skills and educational failings.

Between 10 and 12 per cent of school-aged children in Australia
are diagnosed with the condition, which is one of the highest rates
in the world.

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